16 Compass
The COMPASS framework offers a structured approach to crafting prompts that yield optimal results from AI models.
COMPASS is an acronym that stands for: Context, Objective, Mode (Persona), People of Interest (Audience), Attitude (Tone), Style and Specifications.
This framework provides a comprehensive template for creating prompts that guide AI tools effectively. By addressing each of these components, you ensure that your AI assistant has all the necessary information to generate the desired output.
16.1 COMPASS Components
Let’s delve deeper into each component.
16.1.1 Context
The Context sets the stage for your AI interaction. It provides the background information necessary for the AI to understand the situation or topic at hand.
Why it matters: Without proper context, the AI might make incorrect assumptions or provide irrelevant information.
Example: “We’re launching a new eco-friendly water bottle made from 100% recycled materials. Our brand, EcoSip, is known for innovative, sustainable products.”
16.1.2 Objective
The Objective clarifies the main goal or purpose of your prompt. It guides the AI’s focus and helps shape the direction of the generated content.
Why it matters: A clear objective ensures that the AI’s response aligns with your intended outcome.
Example: “Create an engaging tweet that will drive awareness and sales of our new water bottle among environmentally conscious consumers.”
16.1.3 Mode
The Mode or Persona defines the voice or character from which the AI should craft its response.
Why it matters: Adopting a specific persona can make the content more engaging and relatable to your target audience.
Example: “Adopt the voice of an excited environmentalist who has just discovered a game-changing product.”
16.1.4 People of Interest
This component identifies the target audience for the AI-generated content.
Why it matters: Understanding the audience helps tailor the language, complexity, and type of information included in the response.
Example: “Our target audience is millennials and Gen Z (18-35 years old) who are active on social media and passionate about reducing plastic waste.”
16.1.5 Attitude
Attitude describes the emotional tone or attitude the AI should convey in its response.
Why it matters: The tone significantly affects how the message is perceived and can impact audience engagement.
Example: “Enthusiastic and inspiring, with a touch of urgency about environmental action.”
16.1.6 Style
Style specifies the writing style to be adopted in the response.
Why it matters: The right style ensures the content matches the expectations of both the prompt and the audience.
Example: “Use a conversational tone with relevant hashtags and emojis. Include a call-to-action.”
16.1.7 Specifications
Specifications detail any specific requirements or limitations for the AI’s response.
Why it matters: This component ensures that the output meets your needs and guidelines effectively.
Example: “- Maximum 280 characters (Twitter limit) - Include the product name:”EcoSip Revolution” - Mention that it’s made from 100% recycled materials - Use at least 2 relevant hashtags - Include a shortened link placeholder [LINK]”
16.2 COMPASS in Digital Marketing
By using COMPASS, you can:
- Create more targeted content
- Generate more accurate market insights
- Develop more effective campaign strategies
- Improve overall marketing ROI
Always review and refine your COMPASS prompts based on the results you receive. Continuous improvement of your prompting skills will lead to better AI-assisted marketing outcomes over time.
16.3 Practical Application
Let’s look at how we can apply the COMPASS framework to a common digital marketing task: creating a social media post for a new product launch.
# Context
We're launching a new eco-friendly water bottle made from 100% recycled materials. Our brand, EcoSip, is known for innovative, sustainable products.
# Objective
Create an engaging tweet that will drive awareness and sales of our new water bottle among environmentally conscious consumers.
# Mode
Adopt the voice of an excited environmentalist who has just discovered a game-changing product.
# People of Interest
Our target audience is millennials and Gen Z (18-35 years old) who are active on social media and passionate about reducing plastic waste.
# Attitude
Enthusiastic and inspiring, with a touch of urgency about environmental action.
# Style
Use a conversational tone with relevant hashtags and emojis. Include a call-to-action.
# Specifications
- Maximum 280 characters (Twitter limit)
- Include the product name: "EcoSip Revolution"
- Mention that it's made from 100% recycled materials
- Use at least 2 relevant hashtags
- Include a shortened link placeholder [LINK]
This response is tailored to the brand, product, and target audience, making it more likely to drive engagement and conversions.
16.4 Conclusion
By providing structure to your AI interactions, the COMPASS framework enables you to generate more targeted, effective, and engaging content for your marketing campaigns.